18-Year-Old Homeless Mom Excels as Best Student, Wins $600K Scholarship to US University
I pushed myself hard, and my baby motivated me every day because I wanted to provide for her, and I also didn't want to be a statistic.
AKACHI NOEL 
Trameka Pope, an 18-year-old high school student, overcame immense challenges to become the top graduate of Wendell Phillips Academy High School. Despite facing homelessness and the responsibilities of motherhood, she achieved the distinction of valedictorian and secured numerous scholarships, eventually earning her Master's Degree.
Trameka's determination and relentless pursuit of her dreams propelled her to success. She shared, "I always said that I wanted to make change and I wanted to be in the history books, and I started with myself. I didn't give up. I pushed myself hard, and my baby motivated me every day because I wanted to provide for her, and I also didn't want to be a statistic."
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Following her outstanding performance in high school, Trameka received admission offers from 25 colleges, all accompanied by scholarship awards totaling over $610,000. Her choice was Western Illinois University in Macomb, Illinois, where she pursued a Bachelor's Degree in Public Health, graduating with honors in 2018. She continued her educational journey by enrolling in a Master's Degree program in Public Health and earned her degree in 2021.
Trameka's achievements extended beyond academics. Despite her challenges, she was a cheerleader, a member of the National Honor Society, and engaged in various extracurricular activities while also maintaining a job at a local grocery store.
Today, Trameka is not only a Master's Degree holder but also a brand ambassador for Big Brothers Big Sisters of Metropolitan Chicago, a non-profit organization that provides mentoring to children and their families. She inspires others with her story, emphasizing that regardless of one's background or circumstances, success is attainable.
Trameka's journey serves as a testament to resilience and determination, inspiring others to pursue their dreams regardless of obstacles.
